Understanding how immune cells protect hair follicle stem cells

Elucidating the Role of Regulatory T cells in Protecting Epithelial Stem Cell Niches

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11101243

This study is looking at how certain immune cells can help protect the hair follicles from attacks that cause hair loss, like in alopecia, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these conditions for people who are struggling with hair growth issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11101243 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of regulatory T cells in protecting hair follicle stem cells from autoimmune attacks, which can lead to conditions like alopecia. The study employs a novel in vivo model that mimics severe forms of hair loss and utilizes innovative techniques to manipulate immune cells specifically in the skin. By examining the mechanisms of Treg localization and their protective functions, the research aims to uncover new insights into how these immune cells maintain the health of stem cells in the skin. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of autoimmune conditions affecting hair growth and potential new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing autoimmune-related hair loss, such as alopecia areata or scarring alopecia.

Not a fit: Patients with hair loss due to non-autoimmune causes or those without any hair loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for autoimmune hair loss conditions, improving outcomes for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in skin health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.